not to be relied upon crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the clue "not to be relied upon," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your crossword puzzle.
Solutions for "not to be relied upon crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
SHAKY: Unstable, uncertain, or easily made to waver, fitting for something undependable.
6 Letters
FICKLE: Changing frequently or whimsically, making it untrustworthy.
7 Letters
ERRATIC: Unpredictable and inconsistent, therefore not reliable.
8 Letters
UNSTABLE: Prone to change or breakdown, meaning it cannot be depended upon.
10 Letters
UNRELIABLE: The most direct synonym, indicating a lack of trustworthiness or consistency.
More About "not to be relied upon crossword clue"
The phrase "not to be relied upon" is a common way for crossword setters to hint at words describing a lack of dependability, trustworthiness, or consistency. These clues often test your vocabulary for synonyms related to instability, unpredictability, or capriciousness. The challenge lies in finding the exact word that fits both the meaning and the letter count provided by the puzzle.
When you encounter such a clue, consider the context if any is provided by other clues or the puzzle's theme. Sometimes, the unreliability might be physical (like a "shaky" bridge), while other times it might refer to character (like a "fickle" person). Being aware of these nuances can help you pinpoint the precise answer the setter is looking for.
This type of clue is a great example of how crosswords use descriptive phrases to lead you to a single, often concise, word. Mastering these kinds of clues relies on a broad vocabulary and the ability to quickly recall synonyms for abstract concepts like reliability and dependability.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: For clues like "not to be relied upon," think about the specific type of unreliability. Is it about consistency (erratic), physical stability (shaky), or emotional steadfastness (fickle)?
- Consider Common Crossword Synonyms: Crossword puzzles often favor certain words. Keep a mental list of popular synonyms for common concepts. For 'unreliable,' words like 'dubious,' 'slippery,' or 'treacherous' might also appear.
- Use Intersecting Letters: Always use the letters from crossing words to confirm your answer. This is the most reliable way to ensure you've picked the correct synonym when multiple options seem plausible for a given letter count.
- Look for Anagrams or Hidden Words: While less common for direct synonym clues, sometimes setters embed hints. Always be open to different clueing styles.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'not to be relied upon' imply in a crossword puzzle?
This clue typically points to words describing instability, untrustworthiness, inconsistency, or unpredictability. Answers often reflect a lack of dependability, whether for a person, an object, or a situation, requiring the solver to think of synonyms for 'undependable' or 'inconsistent'.
Are there common crossword patterns or synonyms for 'unreliable' clues?
Yes, common patterns include words like 'fickle,' 'erratic,' 'shaky,' 'unstable,' 'treacherous,' 'slippery,' or 'dubious.' Crossword setters often use synonyms that vary in nuance but convey the core meaning of undependability, sometimes playing on the context (e.g., a 'fickle' friend vs. a 'shaky' ladder).
How do I choose the correct answer when multiple words fit 'not to be relied upon'?
The letter count is crucial for narrowing down options. Always check intersecting letters from other clues, as these are definitive. Consider the puzzle's theme, the setter's style, or if the specific nuance of the synonym aligns better with other clues. Sometimes, one answer might fit a more general context, while another is very specific.